Aam Janata | Satyameva Jayate

Aam Janata aims to look at India through the lens of any average Indian. It sees India as a shared, co-created, constantly evolving space and sees all citizens as important to the country. This blog emerged from a strong passion for behavioral science and has an egalitarian ethos.

This blog does not claim a “neutral perspective” that is content to state what happens. It upholds the vision of any shared space, though most often, it speaks of India as a country, as the shared heritage of all its people. Most content on this blog is created by Vidyut. However, there are plenty of other writers as well. Content that appears here reflects the following values that are the intent behind the creation of this blog.

Personal autonomy

Here, it is a quick term to refer to all fundamental rights due to a person as per the United Nations. I would have said Indian constitution, however, our government appears to be busy trying to prove in the Supreme Court that Indians don’t have a right to privacy, so it seemed prudent to switch to a more accountable list. This blog strongly endorses the right of individuals to make their own choices as long as they are legal. In some cases, this blog recognizes the right of people to make choices even if they are not legal, because admin (Vidyut) believes the prevailing law infringes on a more important right of the people concerned and in a manner that undermines their rights in comparison with the rest of the population. Examples of such exceptions include, but may not be limited to:

Homosexuality: We have no idea why the government must have an opinion on who has sex with whom at all, as long as it is consensual. We don’t recognize any such right of the government (or for that matter any other entity not participating in that relationship) that prohibits consensual intimate relationships between adults.

Sedition: We believe that both the term and the law are recklessly used to overrule the autonomy of citizens. It is a colonial law and its use is a colonist’s action. We do not recognize any of the cases currently known as sedition as seditious. In fact, we believe that the current government’s undermining of the country’s economy, law and order, secular fabric, internal and external security, currency and more is a direct act of destruction against the country, and if sedition exists, then this is it.

Blasphemy: Laws against blasphemy infringe on the rights of atheists to state their beliefs, including beliefs that religious people may not appreciate. If there is a right to believe in any god and follow any religion of choice, then it is not a right unless a person can openly opt out as well. Which brings us to…

Aadhaar and UIDAI: This blog considers Aadhaar to be a multipronged attack on the well being of India that is perpetrated by certain vested interests in the country in collusion with foreign interests seeking to subjugate and economically exploit India. There are unacceptable problems with the Aadhaar Card including but not limited to security, denial of basic rights and services, violation of privacy, undermining of national citizenships and a serious vector for the destruction of the economy. This blog considers Aadhaar fit only for destruction.

Self-determination

We believe that citizens of a free country participate in the processes of the country because it is a mutually beneficial relationship. We believe that when it comes to a conflict of interest, the decision of the people living in the circumstances under question must be final. A country cannot inflict the resources of a region or brutalize them for its own interest and against their will and with no benefit to them. This is colonization. This exploitation is what we fought for independence against. India subjugating its citizens this will always be considered a deterioration on this blog. This means that if the state believes that its desired actions in any place are not acceptable to the residents, then it is the responsibility of the state to ensure their willing consent or abandon the project. Evicting citizens from their homes and villages, destroying natural habitats, imposing armed subjugation of the population are all acts of war against own citizens and to be condemned. No citizen owes others an unending duty to sacrifice on the behalf of others while they face ruin themselves.

Non-affiliation

This blog is not affiliated with any political party, commercial entity, activist group or any other kind of organized activities that would have an impact on the public space in India. Any actions appreciated or supported will be limited by nature and any support extended to any entity – whether a protest movement or political party will be explicitly disclosed on the blog along with the reasons for it and the duration the affiliation/bias is expected to last. This also goes for commercial affiliation. Regardless of affiliation, this blog will not endorse anything that violates the stated values of this blog.

Anti-extremism

We believe India is only harmed by communal hatred and polarization. Whether religious, caste based, class based or politically motivated. It will always be opposed.

Accountability of authority

Authority must be accountable to all it holds power over. An authority that refuses the basic democratic principle of being accountable to those it represents is not recognized by this blog as a democratic entity. Any authority must answer to constituents for any questions that may be raised that impact the person or persons or overall condition of the whole. This is in keeping with authority being a role that wields the power of the whole, as opposed to wielding power over the whole. Thus, whoever it claims to speak on behalf of, must know what the authority granted by them is being used for. Any authority refusing this, must step down and make way for those who are willing to be accountable.

The special case of BJP and Narendra Modi

Repeated observations of the political party BJP have led us to conclude that BJP is not a democratic entity and thus not beneficial to India. Observations of promises made, methods used to make them and the subsequent lack of delivery, refusal to be accountable, patronization of violent fringe elements as political leverage have been made and are enough to convince us that BJP is a scam on the people who were made to believe that their interests would be served by voting for the party, when in reality their interests have only been harmed. The blog will consistently advocate the use of democratic means to ensure that this entity claiming to be a party gets as little power to misuse as possible. While BJP remains in power at the center, this stand is unlikely to change. This does not indicate any hostility for supporters of the party or leader. This stand about the party has been taken on the basis of the actions of the leaders. Individual supporters do not wield the power and merely holding different views from us, even if they are views we consider harmful may merit spirited debate or outright disagreement, but as long as everyone has their autonomy, supporters of BJP are perfectly welcome to engage.

This place is an ongoing conversation

This blog aims to create a space where diverse views can coexist, but beyond coexisting, we also hope that this becomes a place where like minded people can collaborate and expand the reach of the values of this blog. We are interested in an expanding dialogue, across perspectives and even opinions. Agreement is overrated. It is differences that expand our ability to think beyond what we already know. We are very interested in hearing from you. What you think of the content, do you have something to add? Do you disagree with something said here? Let’s talk.

Comments 94

Vidyut..You rock girl!! God Bless you! Really like this space – very objective and intellectually simulating (“vidyut”-ifying the nerve endings in brain 😉 ). Thank you for the fresh perspective and objectivity you have been working on.

Your gobar economy article was something I was looking for days – you know when you’re just looking for some “unbiased” and fact based write up amidst so much “noise”. A world to explore on your blog! Hitting subscribe! Keep writing and hope you keep earning!

Your story should be an inspiration to scores of youngsters who are ‘looking for a job’. In today’s connected world, one can indeed do what one loves if one prioritizes one’s life and does not take on too much of the traditional responsibilities too early. Unlike ten years ago where you needed a Web Developer who would have charged you a bomb to create the site and also charge a retainer to update the site, one person can do all of the above and much more. Thanks to open source Content Management Systems which can be learnt to install and use in a day, any person can create a world class site with SEO-friendly features which will not only look great but also show up high on search results. It just requires patience, a bit of tinkering around and a quest for perfection – all qualities that you obviously have. I see your blog is built on wordpress and uses a theme that is obviously one of the best around. Your blog and web presence is something that lakhs of money spent could not have given you. By learning to build your own web presence you now have total control over your internet destiny and that is something that can only grow and flower with time! As one of the top detectives and private investigators in Mumbai, I have done the same with my own website and have reaped the results and I advise all freelance and small time entrepreneurs to learn a bit of html and to use content management systems. You will be doing yourself and your future a favour!

Saw your tweet! Random! Clicked on the link and stumbled on your blog!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Viola! what I saw and read I loved it all without an iota of doubt. Your about me is definitely inspiring and is a great reminder of all things beautiful in life but rudely ignored in tryst for wealth and success..I am counting myself one of those however I am still broke 😉 Keep up your good work and god bless 🙂

Apologize to barge in with something out of context here. But, honestly have been meaning to write to you for a while now. Could not message you on twitter as you are not a follower.

Pardon me, am not too good at expressing but just wanted to let you know that somewhere somehow you have been sort of helping me get back to my normalcy (been battling chronic medical issues and still am). Had been brooding for a long time (yes, I admit it) but now things seem positive..

I would not say that you preach but yes you do have a knack of putting across some simple facts which get blinded otherwise. The one thing I did not do was to share my medical ailment journey with people and just shut myself up. Have been lucky so far that things are not getting worse but yes, I have learnt from you, the need to share, as it may help someone somewhere overcome similar situations.

So, a big thank you and hugs. Do not want to sugar coat with lot more words 🙂

just come across variety of blogs written by you and it was indeed pleasure to read few, especially Nisarga, it is really unique for me and perhaps such blogs shall inspire me too the day i have kid ….

the other thing l liked about designing on your own as i could relate to my business when i started in 2005 , relying on websites purely for generating business rather than torturing everyone making cold calls….

just come across variety of blogs written by you and it was indeed pleasure to read few, especially Nisarga, it is really unique for me and perhaps such blogs shall inspire me too the day i have kid ….

the other thing l liked about designing on your own as i could relate to my business when i started in 2005 , relying on websites purely for generating business rather than torturing everyone making cold calls….

Motidas, Anna fasting 6th day today. Non of the Neta/Minister came to him to request him to withdraw from fasting. How painful situation. What the different parties Netas are doing? Shameless Politicians & politician are alike erespective of any party.They are no way less than Bed Bugs. Once they grab the Goddi – behaves the Mass, just like ass ! God save them . Ms Aruna Roy advices many thing today & supporting to Govt and she has submitted her Draft to include in Lokpal ! Where was she so long ? To gain the popularity many Neta will come now . No one thinks to a old man in fasting & he is in fasting for whom ? And who will be benifited ? We are all shameless peoples – the netas are from only this society . My appeals to the Govt of India to motivate Anna to leave fasting & most of his Lan Lokpal points to be adopted. – dont forget the Nations 80% public in support of Jan Lokpal points. Majarity must be granted..Plz help & co-otackle the situation in healthy manners. . Its not too late .

Ref:The TOI dt.21.08.2011 ,The CM Karnataka taken measures on LPG issues, but how about the Ration Cards?I am for the last 3 years going on approaching for renewal of my Ration Card – No.OSBOL-013-00311 of 2007.But no measures from FCS&CA nor from the FCS(south)Camarajpet office. What measures Govt is going to take & why Govt forgetting tha Ration Card & LPG is the Basic Needs of each& every family in this country. The Negligence,Carelessness & harassing the public is the main attitudes of all the Govt in India , the reason is obvious & known to all public .

Hence,the Jan Lokpal is the right way to protect the citizens need in future, if it becomes a Act.The BTM Residents had a Candle Light March last evening on Road and thousands of peoples on this rally – we the old peoples are also took part in rally to save our country from corruptions Hence, I need to know when can the new Ration Card will be issue to me plz.

Motidas, Anna fasting 6th day today. Non of the Neta/Minister came to him to request him to withdraw from fasting. How painful situation. What the different parties Netas are doing? Shameless Politicians & politician are alike erespective of any party.They are no way less than Bed Bugs. Once they grab the Goddi – behaves the Mass, just like ass ! God save them . Ms Aruna Roy advices many thing today & supporting to Govt and she has submitted her Draft to include in Lokpal ! Where was she so long ? To gain the popularity many Neta will come now . No one thinks to a old man in fasting & he is in fasting for whom ? And who will be benifited ? We are all shameless peoples – the netas are from only this society . My appeals to the Govt of India to motivate Anna to leave fasting & most of his Lan Lokpal points to be adopted. – dont forget the Nations 80% public in support of Jan Lokpal points. Majarity must be granted..Plz help & co-otackle the situation in healthy manners. . Its not too late .

Ref:The TOI dt.21.08.2011 ,The CM Karnataka taken measures on LPG issues, but how about the Ration Cards?I am for the last 3 years going on approaching for renewal of my Ration Card – No.OSBOL-013-00311 of 2007.But no measures from FCS&CA nor from the FCS(south)Camarajpet office. What measures Govt is going to take & why Govt forgetting tha Ration Card & LPG is the Basic Needs of each& every family in this country. The Negligence,Carelessness & harassing the public is the main attitudes of all the Govt in India , the reason is obvious & known to all public .

Hence,the Jan Lokpal is the right way to protect the citizens need in future, if it becomes a Act.The BTM Residents had a Candle Light March last evening on Road and thousands of peoples on this rally – we the old peoples are also took part in rally to save our country from corruptions Hence, I need to know when can the new Ration Card will be issue to me plz.

Hi I came to this site by chance and got glued to your writings for more than one hour and have bookmarked your page. Initially I never thought that you can write about so serious matters when I followed your tweets on tweeter, I always thought you to be a fun loving care too hoots abt the world women and used to enjoy your tweets.But today I must admit I was wrong. I felt happy and enlightened by your struggle to overcome the difficulties and your never give up attitude that you have shown. May god bless you and you reach the pinnacle of success in your life. with best wishes and regards

Hi I came to this site by chance and got glued to your writings for more than one hour and have bookmarked your page. Initially I never thought that you can write about so serious matters when I followed your tweets on tweeter, I always thought you to be a fun loving care too hoots abt the world women and used to enjoy your tweets.But today I must admit I was wrong. I felt happy and enlightened by your struggle to overcome the difficulties and your never give up attitude that you have shown. May god bless you and you reach the pinnacle of success in your life. with best wishes and regards

Dear Vidyut, Curiosity brought me to this page…and I am so glad it did. Wonderful writings, great thoughts and a noble mind. Privileged to know you. Wish you great challenges and still greater victories. You are a tribute to the adage “what the mind can conceive…it can achieve”. Would love to learn from you…especially on facilitation as that is one of my fascinations, which I am able to indulge..although not as much as I would prefer. Please do let me know how I could learn from you. Regards, God Bless & God Speed! Vaya Con Dios Ajay

Dear Vidyut, Curiosity brought me to this page…and I am so glad it did. Wonderful writings, great thoughts and a noble mind. Privileged to know you. Wish you great challenges and still greater victories. You are a tribute to the adage “what the mind can conceive…it can achieve”. Would love to learn from you…especially on facilitation as that is one of my fascinations, which I am able to indulge..although not as much as I would prefer. Please do let me know how I could learn from you. Regards, God Bless & God Speed! Vaya Con Dios Ajay

Vidyut…love yr writing styles( my delete button is not working, so cannot remove the extra “s”). The way you express yr self- strong and clear. I was in a job i was not that happy with. I quit and am now doing things closer to my heart( I have a home based online biz which deals in video mails, online channel, video con etc). After resigning, I felt I should have taken that step earlier. I sincerely wish you all the best.

Vidyut…love yr writing styles( my delete button is not working, so cannot remove the extra “s”). The way you express yr self- strong and clear. I was in a job i was not that happy with. I quit and am now doing things closer to my heart( I have a home based online biz which deals in video mails, online channel, video con etc). After resigning, I felt I should have taken that step earlier. I sincerely wish you all the best.

hear my voice ,6monts jammu capital 6monts kashmir capital ,that is bad, but different in the whole other nations of capital, a verity we make an other center to make in this state,that is middle of jammu & kashmir.a new capital name is ram&rahim , eeshver & allah,and many more mypinkymon@gmail.com

hear my voice ,6monts jammu capital 6monts kashmir capital ,that is bad, but different in the whole other nations of capital, a verity we make an other center to make in this state,that is middle of jammu & kashmir.a new capital name is ram&rahim , eeshver & allah,and many more mypinkymon@gmail.com

Vidyut, you appear to be a very secure, spiritually connected & an industrious individual, with an uncanny sense of adventure. Job satisfaction seems to remain your Top priority. I am sure, you will go far.Best of Luck!!

Vidyut, you appear to be a very secure, spiritually connected & an industrious individual, with an uncanny sense of adventure. Job satisfaction seems to remain your Top priority. I am sure, you will go far.Best of Luck!!

Lol. Still trying to figure that one out. I do without a lot of things. I also have very few needs, so that helps. I don’t need money in the bank. I need food on the table and bills paid. I manage. I have ads here, which barely earn anything, but that is one possibility – that I learn how to really leverage it.

HAH !! (exhaling loudly, delighted, awed, comforted) … I am on a similar journey, started a travel company with my girl-friend “itsaboutthejourney” to celebrate life through travel. Money issues are immense, but keep resolving; in a crunch now so let’s see how it comes out (shouldn’t worry with the experience so far, but still do). But you know, DELIGHTED to find you, if only we (if you don’t mind my including you) could wrap our mind around this money/resource issue, we actually are in paradise 🙂 Ha ! Ha ! Ha ! Ha ! Ha ! Rock on vidyut, ROCK ON ! ALL THE BEST ALL-WAYS. Hang in there….

Lol. Still trying to figure that one out. I do without a lot of things. I also have very few needs, so that helps. I don’t need money in the bank. I need food on the table and bills paid. I manage. I have ads here, which barely earn anything, but that is one possibility – that I learn how to really leverage it.

HAH !! (exhaling loudly, delighted, awed, comforted) … I am on a similar journey, started a travel company with my girl-friend “itsaboutthejourney” to celebrate life through travel. Money issues are immense, but keep resolving; in a crunch now so let’s see how it comes out (shouldn’t worry with the experience so far, but still do). But you know, DELIGHTED to find you, if only we (if you don’t mind my including you) could wrap our mind around this money/resource issue, we actually are in paradise 🙂 Ha ! Ha ! Ha ! Ha ! Ha ! Rock on vidyut, ROCK ON ! ALL THE BEST ALL-WAYS. Hang in there….

Heh. I’m not entirely certain about my sanity, so no comment, but good to have you along on the journey, Tanveer! I can say with certainty that it is bound to be more satisfying than doing things we don’t like 😀

Heh. I’m not entirely certain about my sanity, so no comment, but good to have you along on the journey, Tanveer! I can say with certainty that it is bound to be more satisfying than doing things we don’t like 😀

Vidyut, liked your read so much and the way you have with words.. A candid admission rarely comes thrugh in this world of make believe and wish you the very best in any work, which you do from the heart. It’s real rare that people can pursue their passions and I envy you, your freedom to be free.

Vidyut, liked your read so much and the way you have with words.. A candid admission rarely comes thrugh in this world of make believe and wish you the very best in any work, which you do from the heart. It’s real rare that people can pursue their passions and I envy you, your freedom to be free.